Ashleigh Barty seemingly dropped a hint over her intentions to retire from tennis back in 2020 in a unique post-match press conference.
On Wednesday, Barty left the tennis world in shock by confirming she was stepping away from the sport at the age of just 25. Alongside a video clip of a discussion with former doubles partner and close friend Casey Dellacqua, she explained her decision to fans.
"Today is difficult and filled with emotion for me as I announce my retirement from tennis," she said. "I wasn’t sure how to share this news with you so I asked my good friend @caseydellacqua to help me.
"I am so thankful for everything this sport has given me and leave feeling proud and fulfilled. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way, I’ll always be grateful for the lifelong memories that we created together."
Barty has reigned as world No 1 for three years, and fulfilled a lifelong ambition earlier this year when she captured the Australian Open. In doing so, the Queenslander became the first home player since Chris O'Neil in 1978 to take the title.
That success represented her third Slam title, after she won the French Open in 2019. Last year, she then justified her top seeding at SW19 by triumphing at Wimbledon.
"I am so thankful for everything this sport has given me and leave feeling proud and fulfilled. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way, I’ll always be grateful for the lifelong memories that we created together."
Following the announcement, a host of fellow stars took to social media to pay tribute, including the likes of Serena Williams and Andy Murray. Perhaps though, Barty have a glimpse into the future after losing to Sofia Kenin in the Australian Open semi final in 2020.
Far from perturbed, Barty took her newly born niece, Olivia, with her when she faced the media afterwards. And she suggested the toddler had helped give her a fresh outlook on life.
It's my newest niece," Barty told surprised reporters. "My sister just had her about 11, 12 weeks ago. Yeah, this is what life is all about. It's amazing.
"I mean, perspective is a beautiful thing. Life is a beautiful thing. [Olivia] brought a smile to my face as soon as I came off the court. I got to give her a hug. It's all good."
Barty had previously stepped away from the sport in 2014 to concentrate on cricket, and duly made appearances for the Brisbane Heat in the Women's Big Bash League. She's yet to confirm if she'll explore that avenue again, but has said she'll now "chase other dreams."
